Happy new year!
We been relatively unscathed thus far into our storm season. In the event that something does happen we want you to be prepared so here is some valuable information from Strata Community Insurance who have vast experience in water damage claims. Whilst this information refers to body corporates it is generally applicable to all buildings that experience water damage.
Over the past three years, Strata Community Insurance paid out more than $50 million in water damage claims. Many could have been avoided with a good
preventative maintenance programme, call and have a chat to your Broker if you would like more information about what these measures might look like and who you might need to speak to.
As your Broker we will assist you through every step of your claim and we are available on 07 5586 9955 or through our website https://www.abc2c.com.au/lodge-a-claim
You need to consider the type of water that has inundated the property, as the clean-up process associated with each type will differ. A bathtub that overflows, for example, would be clean water and the resultant damage – such as to carpet – would simply require water extraction, cleaning and sanitisation. In more severe cases, drying equipment will be used to artificially dry the carpet and subfloor, assisting in restricting mould growth. Carpet that is affected by black water, on the other hand, should not be salvaged. The best action plan in the case of black water would be to remove the carpet, clean and sanitise the floor, and replace the carpet.
HINT:
Extract water from internal areas, such as basements, common areas, from common carpets, etc. In relation to lots, while these are not necessarily the Body Corporate’s responsibility, Strata Community Insurance suggests that all lots should be inspected for any sign of water after any significant event, as even the smallest amount of water may lead to mould growth – which will then become the Body Corporate’s responsibility. In the case of water inundation, lot owners should also contact their respective contents insurers immediately.
NOTE: Water extraction may require specialised equipment such as wet vacuums or sump pumps. While Strata Community Insurance understands the ‘desire to
help’ from members of the Body Corporate, we cannot stress enough that the safety of individuals is always of paramount importance, and that full instruction
and supervision should be maintained by a qualified/experienced tradesperson.
Moisture is the main issue here, and there is a tendency for people to want to artificially dry buildings. However, this is not the correct action in all cases. The
success of artificial drying will vary, and is dependent on other factors (including climate). Conversely, artificial drying has been known to cause cracking and
movement. Again, expert assistance should be sought before using artificial drying techniques, as natural drying may be more appropriate depending on the
circumstances.
NOTE: Mould requires organic matter for food, moisture, warmth and oxygen. The removal of one (or more) of these will inhibit mould growth. Therefore,
cleaning and ventilation are your keys to mitigating mould.
This part of the process may be long and tedious. Some parts (items within the building) will dry, require cleaning and will be perfectly functional irrespective of the categorisation of the water or degree of inundation.
Examples are:
The following items can be cleaned, dried and restored:
Hot water systems - Domestic models that are submerged are not repairable, whereas some commercial models can be cleaned, dried and restored.
Domestic appliances - once submerged, are not repairable.
Katherine (08) 7919 7019
2/46 Chardon St